Dronfield boxer refreshed after break and ready for Barnsley challenge

Lewis Taylor in action

Bob Westerdale

Published:19:18Tuesday 13 December 2016

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Lewis Taylor aims to shake off the ring rust and improve his profile under new management this weekend.

On Friday, he fights under Dave Coldwell’s mentorship on a Carl Greaves bill at Barnsley.

The Dronfield middleweight has fought once since November 2015 and is up against a seasoned professional who went the distance with Liverpool’s Paul Smith in May. Polish national Bartlomiej Grafka ( W18 L23 D3) has been out nine times this year - so has a head-start in terms of conditioning.

“I had a break from boxing because I took my time during the change of management” said Taylor. “Being with Dave I can now go on a few different shows and hopefully after winning this, I can get my name out there again and start going for eliminators. Dave wants me to go out there and make a statement.

“I haven’t boxed since Tommy Langford (Commonwealth pts defeat, March) but that boosted my confidence, a lot of people enjoyed the fight.

“I have never had a break since turning professional, (five years ago) it’s all been full-on, so this might well help me in the long run.”

Taylor, 26, admits there will be some ring rust to shed at the Metrodome, but says: “I have been sparring bigger kids in Huddersfield and Birmingham and will be ready on the night. Fights like Langford are what I want, I don’t want to be out there with nobodies.

“The Pole has boxed at light heavy is used to going the distance; a big solid kid who comes forward, non-stop. He has been very active this year.”

Dinnington office worker Taylor will be taking 130 fans to Barnsley, where he will be seeking his 19th pro victory.